Apple-Carrot Walnut Muffins for Breakfast or a Snack

Makes 12 muffins

Grated apple and carrot keep these muffins tender and add gentle sweetness. The recipe is flexible: use all-purpose flour or replace up to half with whole-wheat flour. Walnuts can be omitted for an allergy-friendly version, but check all packaged ingredients if serving a group.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup whole-wheat flour
• 1/2 cup rolled oats, plus a little for topping
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup neutral oil
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt or milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 medium apple, grated
• 1 medium carrot, finely grated
• 1/3 cup chopped walnuts, optional

Method

1. Heat oven to 375 F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin or lightly grease it.

2. Whisk flours, oats, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and ginger in a large bowl.

3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, oil, yogurt or milk, and vanilla. Stir in grated apple and carrot.

4. Fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients just until combined. Fold in walnuts if using; avoid overmixing.

5. Divide batter among cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Sprinkle with oats if desired.

6. Bake 18 to 23 minutes, until the tops spring back and a food thermometer inserted into the center reaches 160 F. Cool before serving.

Storage and swaps

Refrigerate leftovers promptly in a covered container or freeze for later. Thaw in the refrigerator or reheat until steaming. Use raisins instead of walnuts, or add a little orange zest. The texture may vary with flour and produce moisture.

Sources and further reading

• Fabulous Fruit Muffins
• Safe Minimum Internal Temperatures

Health disclaimer

This article is for general education only. Its information and suggestions are not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and may not be right for everyone. Ask a qualified health professional for advice that fits your health, medications, and needs before changing your diet, exercise, supplement use, or care.